Supplement · Performance & ergogenic aids

Exogenous ketones

Also known as: Ketone esters, BHB salts

Ketone bodies sold as an alternative fuel and focus aid, with mixed performance data.

Evidence
Silver· human data
Sources cited
1
Last reviewed
22 July 2026

Exogenous ketones (ketone esters or BHB salts) raise blood ketones without fasting or a ketogenic diet, on the theory that this provides an extra fuel and a focus benefit. Esters raise ketones far more than the salts.

Performance results are decidedly mixed: some studies show a small benefit in specific endurance settings, many show none or even impaired high-intensity work, and gut upset is common. They are expensive and unproven as a general ergogenic aid.

Sources